Neti pots do’s and do not’s

Recommended by most allergy and ear, nose and throat physicians, neti pots clear out foreign objects stuck in the nasal passages. An expert at Baylor College of Medicine wants to ensure that patients using this method in the upcoming allergy and flu season are doing so safely and correctly.

"These rinses help to wash out irritants, allergens, viral particles and infected mucus. It is helpful as a preventative and therapeutic measure for treating nasal allergies, viral infections and bacterial infections," said Dr. Meha Fox, assistant professor in the Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Baylor.

First and foremost, distilled water is the only appropriate water to use when doing a nasal rinse. Tap water is not sterile, and there is a small possibility that microorganisms will infect the sinus cavities.

In Fox's experience, people are generally apprehensive about using nasal rinses because of the sensation involved with the process. Specifically, they feel that they are drowning from the fluid going down the back of their throat. This is easily avoided by breathing through the mouth while doing the rinse, which closes the palate so that much less fluid goes into the throat.

Fox also says that sinus rinses are safe for children to do if the child is at an age where they can participate in the rinse and follow the instructions of breathing through their mouth. Saline sprays can be used if a child cannot tolerate saline rinses.

Because sniffle season can last for months, it's important to know how to clean your nasal rinsing device properly. These devices can build up bacteria or mold, so they need to be cleaned after each use. You can clean the plastic device with soap and hot water and dry it thoroughly. Some manufacturers will have specific instructions on cleaning the device or may even recommend replacing the device every three months.

By Aaron Nieto